From muscle mass to mood swings, and on to weight gain, there are several reasons why men also need to make sure their hormones are in balance. While June as Men’s Health Month is almost over, we shouldn't stop paying attention.
We can continue to advocate for our husbands, sons, brothers and dads, encouraging them to head to the doctors. From change of life to weight gain, some of our guys’ issues can be compared to ours, however biologically different.
Some research actually supports the fact that men have a cycle regulated by the time of year. A study featured on PsychologyToday.com showed that male testosterone levels follow a seasonal pattern, too, with more in the fall and less in the summer.
A study (Svartberg et al., 2003) found that October through December had the highest rates. The lowest levels were seen in months with highest temperatures and longest daylight hours.
You may have heard the term "male menopause." While women experience far more dramatic changes in a shorter period of time, the Mayo Clinic says, “In men, hormone production and testosterone bioavailability decline over a period of many years.”
The correct term, according to the Mayo Clinic is "andropause." which can be responsible for such symptoms as erectile dysfunction, disturbed sleep patterns and physical changes. This decreased testosterone, could contribute to weight gain, decreased energy levels, increased mood swings and a lower sex drive.
We’ve heard of the female biological clock, but did you know that some medical experts say, men may have one too?
According to Dr. Harry Fisch of Weill Cornell Medical College, “A man’s biological clock status is also determined by his levels of testosterone, which drives the development of characteristics such as facial hair, muscle development, and interest in sex. Many other hormones play a role in male sexuality, but testosterone is by far the most prominent and the one most often adjusted with supplements of one type or another. “
While testosterone is the main male sex hormone, estrogen is also important. A study on ScienceDaily.com supported the importance of the typically female dominant hormone, estrogen.
The article reported, “In addition to its direct action on some physical functions, a small portion of the testosterone that men make is normally converted into estrogen by an enzyme called aromatase. The higher the testosterone level in a normal man, the more is converted into estrogen. Since any drop in testosterone means that there is less to be converted into estrogen, men with low testosterone also have low estrogen levels.”
Could male hormone levels actually be responsible for a mid-life crisis? A yellow Corvette convertible and making spray tan appointments at age 50 may have a biological explanation. In all seriousness, however, low testosterone levels can cause behavioral changes due to dissatisfaction with life in general.
According to the Mayo Clinic, “Low testosterone might contribute to a decrease in motivation or self-confidence. You might feel sad or depressed, or have trouble concentrating or remembering things.”
Rather than going on a spending spree for a new ride, it would potentially be cheaper for your guy to get his hormone levels checked.
Sources:
“Male menopause: Myth or reality? – MayoClinic.com.” The Mayo Clinic. Web 27 June 2014.
http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-living/mens-health/in-depth/male-menopause/art-20048056
“Sex in the Springtime – PsychologyToday.com.” Psychology Today. Web 27 June 2014.
http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/loves-evolver/201105/sex-in-the-springtime
“The Male Biological Clock – HarryFisch.com.” Dr. Harry Fisch. Web 27 June 2014.
http://www.harryfisch.com/the-male-biological-clock.html
“Testosterone deficiency not the only cause of changes with age in men – ScienceDaily.com.” Science Daily. Web 27 June 2014.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/09/130911184708.htm
Joanne Sgro-Killworth is a Television Fitness Expert, Certified Personal Trainer and Sport Nutritionist and Publicist. She is Certified in Pilates, Pre-natal/Post-Partum, Yoga and Senior Fitness. She specializes in Weight Loss, Post-Rehab and Post Cancer Training.
Joanne's fitness plans, recipes and lifestyle advice are available globally on her website http://www.happiwoman.com/. She resides in the Phoenix, AZ area with her husband and son, where she runs her fitness and publicity business, JSK PR, http://www.jskpr.com/
Reviewed June 30, 2014
by Michele Blacksberg RN
Edited by Jody Smith